NFL Spin Zone
Fansided

San Francisco 49ers: 2018 NFL Draft grades for Day 3 picks

By Nicholas McGee

FORT WORTH, TX - DECEMBER 03: D.J. Reed
FORT WORTH, TX - DECEMBER 03: D.J. Reed /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
4 of 4
Next
NASHVILLE, TN – SEPTEMBER 10: Richie James #3 of the Middle Tennessee State Blue Raiders makes a reception against the Vanderbilt Commodores during the first half at Vanderbilt Stadium on September 10, 2016 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Frederick Breedon/Getty Images)
NASHVILLE, TN – SEPTEMBER 10: Richie James #3 of the Middle Tennessee State Blue Raiders makes a reception against the Vanderbilt Commodores during the first half at Vanderbilt Stadium on September 10, 2016 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Frederick Breedon/Getty Images) /

Richie James, WR, Middle Tennessee (240th overall)

The 49ers could hardly have found a late-round flier more suited to their offense. James is undersized at 5-10 and 183 pounds but can win off the line with his 4.4 speed and can also generate separation with his quickness as a route-runner.

Magnificent with the ball in his hands after the catch, James tracks the ball well over his shoulder and has the body control to make difficult receptions close to the sideline.

He has, however, had issues with drops and is unlikely to be able to stand up against physical press corners at the next level. James should be limited to slot role, and may find a place on the final roster difficult to come by in a crowded receiver room.

Grade: B+